~ Dr. Shilpa Vora, Chief R&D Officer at Marico
Holi, the festival of colors, is a time of joy, laughter, and vibrant celebrations with friends and family. As we immerse ourselves in the festive spirit, smearing bright hues and splashing water, our hair often bears the brunt of it. The harsh chemicals in synthetic colors, combined with excessive moisture and humidity, can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry, frizzy, and prone to damage. But hair woes need not dull your festive glow! With a little pre-Holi hair care, you can enjoy the celebrations worry-free while keeping your hair healthy and protected.
Wondering how hair oiling will keep your hair safe this Holi?
Hair oiling is one of the most effective and easy methods to protect your hair from damage. It is recommended to oil your hair on the day of Holi right before you step out to play. Begin by applying oil to the scalp, gently massaging it for five to seven minutes for improved blood circulation.
- A good hair oil forms a protective layer on your scalp and strands, and prevents the colors from coming in contact with your hair. It acts as a barrier against the harsh chemicals in Holi colors, preventing damage to the hair caused by exposure to these pigments.
- You can opt for a coconut-based hair oil which is known for its ability to deeply penetrate hair providing intense nourishment and care from within.
- Hair oil also helps tame frizz and facilitates easier hair management. Its lubricating properties aid in detangling, minimizing breakage while washing off the colours from your hair after your celebrations.
In case your hair feels dry in the hours leading up to or in between the celebration, you can reapply a thin layer of oil. Ensure every strand of your hair is well oiled, with extra attention to the ends which tend to be more vulnerable to damage.
It is recommended to maintain a disciplined hair oiling routine post the celebrations as well. Regular hair oiling provides essential nutrients to your hair, ensuring it remains nourished and hydrated. It strengthens your hair by penetrating through the hair shaft, making it stronger from within, reducing breakage, and improving overall hair health. Regularly oiled hair is naturally shiny and soft, giving you a healthy and radiant appearance. A good coconut-based hair oil only needs 30 mins to work and give you intense nourishment. A hair oil massage will help improve blood flow to the hair follicles giving you healthy and beautiful hair from within.
In addition to this, you can use a hair tie or scarf to cover your hair and avoid it from being exposed to the Holi colours directly. Tying your hair up or braiding it will also help minimize exposure to harmful colors.
A well-planned hair care routine before and after Holi can keep your hair nourished and healthy, despite exposure to colors. Prep your hair with a nourishing oil, enjoy the festivities worry-free, and follow up with proper post-Holi care to keep it soft and strong.